Kingsport READS program kicks off next month at Fort Henry Mall

Staff Report
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Aug 23, 2018 at 10:00 AM

KINGSPORT — The Fort Henry Mall next month will start Kingsport READS, a program designed to publicly promote reading through special events held at the mall that inspire students, make reading fun and give back to local school libraries.

Kingsport READS features two events for partnering elementary schools. The first is a READS Spirit Night that encourages reading and supports local libraries. The event features interactive games for students who can use their reading skills to win prizes. For every student that attends, the program donates $1 for the school’s library. The second event is a READS Recognition Night that celebrates the reading achievements of students at the end of the school year. The event features a presentation of certificates by local leaders and a wall of recognition displaying the names of student readers.

According to information from Hull Property Group, which owns and operates the mall, Spirit Night events will be held Sept. 25-27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the mall. So far, at least 12 elementary schools have signed up to participate. Recognition Nights have not been chosen yet but will be scheduled at the end of the school year.

“This is an exciting, new event that brings people together in the mall in support of local reading success. Our goal is to use the mall common area for events that inspire shoppers, families and the community and we are excited to work with local elementary schools to host events that motivate students to read,” said Coles Doyle, marketing director for Hull Property Group. “The READS events are special family outings that publicly encourage and recognize students. They are uplifting, fun and aim to inspire and motivate local students in a unique way outside of the classroom and the home.”

Kingsport READS is supported by the Fort Henry Mall at no cost to participating schools or families. Elementary schools looking to join Kingsport READS can visit www.ourcityreads.com/registration to sign up. The program is also seeking partnerships from local businesses to help grow the community reading initiative. Businesses interested in supporting the program should email [email protected]